Trinidad and Tobago National Tourism Policy 2021-2030.

The National Tourism Policy (2021-2030) is a revised version of National Tourism Policy of 2010, and aligned with the National Development Strategy - Vision 2030 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Agenda. It seeks to provide an overarching policy framework that addresses key areas of tourism development in Trinidad and Tobago at the macro level. The overall objectives of this Policy are to: (I) present a formal statement by the Government that provides a clear path for advancement of the tourism sector, addresses changing circumstances that impact the sector, and helps achieve national objectives; (II) inspire greater confidence among prospective investors and entrepreneurs; (III) act as a platform for policy coherence across the several sectors that contribute to a successful tourism and hospitality product; and (IV) provide a basis for sensitising the general public on the direction of tourism in Trinidad and Tobago. The timeframe of this policy is 10 years covering the period between 2021 and 2030. This revised policy includes seventeen critical aspects of the travel and tourism sector; including but not limited to: climate resilience, disaster risk management and environmental sustainability; land-use planning and spatial development; and tourism investment.
Renewed and sustained efforts will be given for the protection of the natural, cultural and historical resources, and sustainable use of resources through adequate support and finance. The development of heritage sites for tourism will be ensured to raise awareness of the value and significance of sites, increase local pride and support the protection of areas. Land-use planning and environmental responsibility will be integrated into the management of tourism sector to ensure sustainable tourism development. A tourism land use framework will be established by the town and country planning agency, for guidance and approval of tourism super-structure and infrastructure, such as expansion and improvement of water supply, waste disposal and sewage treatment. The inclusion of non-traditional tourism land use for areas such as agricultural and conservation land, that have the potential for product and activity offerings for niche visitor markets, will be considered. Climate change adaptation and mitigation measures which are critical to the local economy and livelihood of its citizens, will be taken. The impacts of climate change on Trinidad and Tobago's tourism sector, as well as the sector's contribution to climate change will be determined, in order to set developmental priorities for adaptation and mitigation. Investment initiatives will be supported to support climate resilience and mitigation in the tourism sector, including investments in nature-based solutions. The delivery of comprehensive disaster management plans and initiatives will be improved to reduce vulnerability and increase the resilience to natural hazards and disasters. Tourism development will be carried out in compliance with national, regional and international regulations and standards to reduce its impact on the environment. Responsible, efficient and sustainable use of resources, including water and energy conservation, will be encouraged within tourism operations and businesses. Sustainable waste management initiatives will be promoted across tourism sites and attractions, as well as other tourism businesses and operators. Incentives will be provided to encourage the adoption of sustainable practices within the tourism industry. Sustainable management, restoration and protection of terrestrial, freshwater, coastal and marine ecosystems, as key elements of the tourism product, will be ensured.
A favourable investment environment, including incentives, will be created for investors. The promotion and facilitation of investment will be supported by appropriate research, market intelligence and analysis. The access to funding for infrastructure needed for tourism development will be facilitated, with priority given to options based on renewable and green technology, climate change adaptation, disaster risk mitigation etc. Comprehensive and ongoing investment in digital technologies for the tourism sector will be supported. Tourism public education and awareness campaigns and programmes will be initiated and developed to improve attitudes and behaviours towards tourism and to understand the importance of tourism to the economic, social and environmental development of the country. Public-Private Partnerships will be strengthened by facilitating the development of an on-going, cooperative working relationship between the Government and industry.